Aspen Valley Wildlife sanctuary logo

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

To report a sick, injured, or orphaned wild animal in Ontario call the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at 705-644-4122. For general inquiries call 705-732-6368 or email info@aspenvalley.org

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned wildlife in Ontario. And they are home to over 30 permanent wildlife residents that cannot be released back to the wild due to severe injury or human interference. 

Sanctuary Tours are available by appointment Thursdays-Sundays at 9:00am and 11:00am. Guests tour and learn the stories of the permanent wildlife residents.

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

Opening Hours: Tours run Thu-Sun by appointment at 9:00am and 11:00, or as a single daily private tour at 8:00am.
Cost: $25
Location: 1116 Crawford Street in Muskoka, Ontario
Phone #: 705-732-6368

Key Takeaways

* Cares for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife and releases them back into the wild for a second chance.

* Educate the public about issues regarding wildlife and wildlife interactions with humans.

* They’re open to the public by appointment only. They offer Guided Group Tours, Family Day Tours, or Private Tours. To book a tour, please email them at tours@aspenvalley.org.

A vet holing a racoon
Caring for orphaned raccoon (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley)

How to Visit

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is open to the public by appointment only. They offer Guided Group Tours, Family Day Tours, or Private Tours.

To book a tour, email tours@aspenvalley.org. All experiences provide the unique opportunity to see the Sanctuary’s permanent residents. Furthermore, animals in rehabilitation are not a part of these tours. 

Opening Hours

Spring Guided Group Tour schedule

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays at 9:00am and 11:00am

(Open Thursdays as of May 9)

3 wild animals at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Reggie and friends (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Aspen Valley: A Sanctuary with a Purpose

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is more than just a shelter; it’s a sanctuary with a profound purpose. They are working for the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured and orphaned wildlife since 1988.

Each year, Aspen Valley takes in over 1,000 animals who require specialized care because they are orphaned, injured, or sick. With a sprawling 460 acres of pristine habitat, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for animals in need.

Injured bear at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
The vet team at the sanctuary (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Want to learn more about bears? Check out my Top 15 Amazing Bear Facts blog!

Mission

Aspen Valley is committed to:

– Providing quality care that avoids habituation to humans and respects each animal’s need for a safe, healthy, species-appropriate environment while in captivity.

– Releasing each animal into the wild in a healthy condition that gives it the best possible chance for survival.

– Educating the public about issues regarding wildlife and wildlife interactions with humans.

– Working within the established regulations set out by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and Forestry.

Injured young coyote have banages on both of its front legs
Injured young coyote (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Rescue and Rehabilitation

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary takes in over 1,000 animals every year. Many are orphaned and in need of around-the-clock care and feeding.

They are the only licensed wildlife rehabber in Ontario actively rehabilitating moose and one of the few rehabilitation centres equipped with an aquatic facility to house and care for semi-aquatic mammals, including beavers and otters. Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary also provides second chances for larger species, such as bears, wolves, and deer, as well as raccoons, squirrels, and many other mammalian species.

One of the core missions of Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned animals. Skilled and compassionate wildlife rehabilitators work tirelessly to mend broken wings, nurse ailing mammals back to health, and nurture vulnerable youngsters until they are ready to return to their natural habitat.

Education and Awareness

Beyond rescue and rehabilitation, Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary places a strong emphasis on education and awareness. Through educational programs, guided tours, and community outreach, the sanctuary strives to inspire a deep appreciation for the importance of preserving Canada’s diverse wildlife.

Woman holding 2 food bowls for animals
Breakfast time (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Community Engagement

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary understands the value of community involvement. They actively engage with the local community, schools, and nature enthusiasts to promote a shared responsibility for the environment. By creating opportunities for people to connect with wildlife, they instill a sense of stewardship that extends beyond the sanctuary’s borders.

7 bunnies eating leaves in a blue crate
This family of bunnies has been released back into the wild (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Check out my blog Critter Care Wildlife Society!

Be a Part of Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

By supporting Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, you become a part of a remarkable journey that promises hope and a brighter future for wild creatures.

Feeding formula milk to Baby beaver using syringe
Hungry Baby (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Donate

Financial contributions are essential to the sanctuary’s operation. Moreover, your donation directly supports the care, rehabilitation, and conservation efforts for wildlife in need.

Racoons are sleeping in Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary)
Just chillin … and stretching (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Volunteer for Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary relies on volunteers to help with everything from animal care, fundraising, drivers for animal transfers, tour guides, and more. From feeding infant animals to working around the sanctuary, all volunteers are welcomed.

If you’re passionate about wildlife and want to make a hands-on difference, consider volunteering your time and expertise at the sanctuary. Your help can make a significant impact on the animals’ well-being.

Woman releasing 4 racoons
Over 38 orphaned raccoons have recently been released back into the wild (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Shop

The Sanctuary has curated a small collection of online gifts that are unique to the Sanctuary. All proceeds from sales go directly to the animals in our care. They also have a Wish List on Amazon.

animals at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Maxwell at the sanctuary (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Life Insurance

You can name Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Rosseau, Ontario) as the owner and beneficiary of a new or existing life insurance policy. Often the policy amount will exceed the premiums you have paid, which allows you to bestow a much larger gift than you might otherwise be able to provide.

Transferring ownership of an existing policy to Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Rosseau, Ontario) entitles you to a tax credit for the cash surrender value.

Coyote surgery to realign her bones
Coyote surgery to realign her bones (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Educate

Spread the word about Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and the importance of wildlife conservation. Furthermore, encourage others to get involved and support this vital cause.

Woman holding eagle in green towel
Rescued eagle (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Where to Stay Near Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

A visit to Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Ontario’s stunning Muskoka region is a peaceful, inspiring escape into the heart of Canadian wilderness. Staying nearby gives you more time in nature and less time on the road. Here are top places to stay for every budget.

Budget Accommodation – Muskoka Lakes Hotel and Resorts

Located near Lake Rosseau and just a 20–30 minute drive from the sanctuary, Muskoka Lakes Hotel and Resorts offers simple comfort with rustic charm. Rooms are cozy and clean, and the surroundings offer easy access to walking trails, lakeside views, and quiet evenings under the stars. Perfect for travelers who prioritize nature and value over frills.

➡️Click here to book your stay at Muskoka Lakes Hotel and Resorts!

Mid-Range Accommodation – Windermere House

Just 25 minutes from the sanctuary, Windermere House is a historic lakefront inn offering elegant charm at a reasonable price. With its on-site spa, dining, and stunning views of Lake Rosseau, it’s a great balance between comfort and character. Guests especially love the friendly service and walkable village location.

➡️Click here to book your stay at Windermere House!

Luxury Accommodation – JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

If you’re looking to treat yourself, the JW Marriott Rosseau is Muskoka’s crown jewel. Located about 30 minutes from the sanctuary, this luxury resort sits right on the lake with stunning views, an indoor-outdoor pool, full-service spa, and multiple fine-dining options. It’s a resort experience perfect for relaxing after a day among rescued wildlife.

➡️Click here to book your stay at JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa!

Follow Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary on Social Media

Website: https://www.aspenvalley.ca/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspenValleyWildlifeSanctuary/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspenvalleywildlifesanctuary/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aspenvalleywildlifesanctua3556

$ Donate: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/39553

2 bear cubs in a blue blanket
A pair of orphaned bear cubs (Photo Courtesy of Aspen Valley Sanctuary)

Check out all of my wildlife blogs here!

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